Idyllically located on the Mediterranean Sea, Cadaqués is a former fishing village which has transformed over the years into a popular tourist destination. Right on the edge of the Cap de Creus Peninsula, where the Pyrenees Mountains meet the sea, Cadaqués inspired much of Salvador Dalí’s work. Here is a cultural guide to this seaside town.
Why go?
Located in the far North-East of Spain, and just South of the French border, Cadaqués is a great place for a weekend trip! This coastal town offers the serenity of both the sea and mountains. Discover its original white and blue architecture and don’t forget to visit the house of the famous Salvador Dalí. You can also explore the town’s winding paths, its port, Santa Maria church and the amazing view of Cadaqués bay.
Day 1
You can start your first day by going to Dalí’s house in Portlligat bay. Admission is by advance ticket only. After the visit, you can also take a boat from there.
Head to Cadaqués waterfront for lunch.
Continue with a walk through de Creus Peninsular where you will definitely see how Dalí was influenced by the scenery!
You will certainly be needing a drink so head to Plaça Passeig, a square in the town centre where you’ll find Dalí’s statue and many bars. The best spot there is Bar Boia.
Day 2
Visit iglésia de Santa María, a Gothic hilltop church from the 16th century.
If you’re keen on sport, go back to Portlligat and kayak along the coast to Cap de Creus, or do some snorkelling.
Try the famous Taps Dolços, a Cadaqués’ speciality you’ll find in the port.
More information about Cadaqués.
Where to stay
Horta d’en Rahola (C/ Sant Vicens 1; 0034 972 25 10 49. hortacadaques.com). Close to the beach, seven rooms with contemporary coastal décor. Doubles from €92, including breakfast.
Hotel Sol Ixent (C/ Sant Baldiri 10; 0034 972 25 10 43. hotelsolixent.com). Away from town center, with a sea-view terrace and a pool. Doubles from €79, including breakfast.
Hotel Tarongeta (Paratge Tarongeta; 0034 972 25 82 89). Doubles from €43, room only, through booking.com.
Cadaqués’ camping is at only 300m away from Dali’s house and 600m from the port via Carrer de la Miranda.
Another option is to look for an apartment on Airbnb. Prices vary depending the seasons.
Getting there
Cadaqués is an hour’s drive away from Girona, and two and a half hours from Barcelona. Driving is the easiest and cheapest way to go.
There are other ways to get there. You can take either a direct bus to Cadaqués from Barcelona’s Estació del Nord or a train to Figueres and then a bus to Cadaqués. There are trains every day. A return ticket costs around 24 euros.
You can also take a return high speed train ticket (el AVE) for 50 euros from Barcelona and Girona to Figueres-Vilafant station and then take the bus to Cadaqués.
